The Heels in the Hierarchy Podcast

This episode explores the growing, often-hidden impact of elder care on women in the workforce — from 600 people quitting daily in the UK to the 1.4 million ‘sandwich carers’ balancing children, careers and aging relatives. Hosts SJ and Pegsy discuss the emotional toll, anticipatory grief, financial pressures, workplace stigma and practical resources, and offer compassionate advice for both carers and managers on how to navigate and support this major life transition. https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/care/ https://www.carersuk.org/help-and-advice/ https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ https://www.nhs.uk/social-care-and-support/help-from-social-services-and-charities/getting-a-needs-assessment/ Download and share our podcast The Heels in the Hierarchy Podcast | heelsinthehierarchy Subscribe to our channel!  https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierachy #heelsinthehierarchy #authenticleadership #womeninleadership https://buymeacoffee.com/heels_in_the_hierarchy  

The difference between an ordeal and an adventure is your attitude. This episode is pure adventure. To celebrate one year of Heels in the Hierarchy, SJ and Pegsy are throwing open the outtakes reel — the bloopers, the behind-the-scenes moments, and the bits that didn't quite make the cut. But amid the laughter there's something genuinely valuable here too: honest conversation about vulnerability, neurodiversity, feedback, and the wonderfully messy human side of putting yourself out there. If you've ever wondered what goes on when the recording light is on and everything goes slightly sideways — this one's for you. Enjoyed the show? You can support us here: ☕ Buy Us a Coffee 🎧 Listen & subscribe: https://heelsinthehierarchy.podbean.com/ ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy #HeelsInTheHierarchy #PodcastBloopers #OneYearAnniversary #Neurodiversity #Vulnerability #AuthenticLeadership #WomenInLeadership #BehindTheMic #PodcastForWomen #WomenSupportingWomen

A year in. What have we learned? More than we expected. SJ and Pegsy mark one year of Heels in the Hierarchy by revisiting the themes that have resonated most deeply with their listeners: women's health, late and missed diagnoses, neurodivergence, and the systemic barriers that too many women still face at work every single day. With personal stories, listener responses, and a call for workplaces to move beyond policy and into genuine action, this is a milestone episode that's as forward-looking as it is reflective. In this episode: The themes that defined Year One — and why they matter for leadership Personal stories and listener voices Why curious, trust-based management changes everything What it will actually take to make workplaces work for women Share this one. These conversations only grow when more people join them. 🎧 Listen & subscribe: https://heelsinthehierarchy.podbean.com/ ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy #HeelsInTheHierarchy #OneYearAnniversary #WomensHealth #Neurodivergence #WomenInLeadership #WorkplaceEquality #AuthenticLeadership #MissedDiagnosis #PodcastForWomen #WomenAtWork

Having a job is supposed to be the answer. For millions of people in the UK, it isn't enough. In this episode SJ and Pegsy tackle one of the most uncomfortable realities in modern working life — in-work poverty. Rising living costs, part-time contracts, and a persistent gender pay gap are leaving workers, and disproportionately women, financially vulnerable despite being in employment. But this isn't just a policy conversation. It's a leadership one. SJ and Pegsy explore what employers and managers can actually do right now — from flexible working and trust-based policies to discreet support programmes and smarter job design — to make a genuine difference to the people in their teams. In this episode: Why employment is no longer a guarantee of financial security How the gender pay gap and part-time work compound the problem Practical steps employers can take — beyond the employee assistance programme Why psychological safety is the foundation for any meaningful support If you find this podcast valuable, please share it — and consider supporting us: ☕ Buy Us a Coffee 🎧 Listen & subscribe: https://heelsinthehierarchy.podbean.com/ ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy #HeelsInTheHierarchy #InWorkPoverty #GenderPayGap #WomenAndMoney #WorkplaceWellbeing #PodcastForWomen #UKPoverty #EmployeeWellbeing #WomenInLeadership #FairWork

A decade of severe pain. A senior job to hold down. A toddler to raise. And nobody believed her. In this episode SJ and Pegsy welcome Charlotte, an IT manager and mother, who shares her extraordinary ten-year journey through undiagnosed abdominal pain — navigating hospitals, referrals, sceptical employers, and a healthcare system that repeatedly failed her. This is a powerful, important listen — not just for anyone who has experienced chronic unexplained illness, but for every manager and colleague who has ever wondered how to support someone going through something they can't fully see or understand. In this episode: Charlotte's decade-long medical mystery and what it cost her Being passed between gynaecology and gastroenterology with no answers Gaslighting in healthcare — and in the workplace Practical guidance for managers supporting employees with long-term health challenges If this resonates, please share it. Someone you know probably needs to hear it. ☕ Support us on Buy Me a Coffee 🎧 Listen & subscribe: https://heelsinthehierarchy.podbean.com/ ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy Links mentioned in this episode: Women's Health Mag UK — Women's Pain Being Dismissed #HeelsInTheHierarchy #WomensHealth #ChronicIllness #MedicalGaslighting #WomenInLeadership #WorkplaceSupport #MedicalMisogyny #InvisibleIllness #PodcastForWomen #WomenAtWork

Nine years. That's how long the average woman waits for an endometriosis diagnosis in the UK. Nine years of pain, dismissal, and being told it's normal. In this episode SJ and Pegsy dig into the refreshed UK Women's Health Strategy, published April 2026, and ask the question nobody in government seems keen to answer: warm words and new frameworks are welcome, but who is actually accountable for change? With over three quarters of a million women waiting for gynaecology care, this isn't just a health crisis — it's a workplace crisis. Undiagnosed and unsupported conditions are quietly damaging careers, mental health, and financial security every single day. In this episode: What the renewed Women's Health Strategy actually says — and what it doesn't The endometriosis diagnosis gap and its human cost How undiagnosed conditions affect careers, income, and mental health What managers can do right now — curiosity, trust, and reasonable adjustments Why awareness without accountability changes nothing Share this episode. Push for action, not just awareness. ☕ Support us on Buy Me a Coffee 🎧 Listen & subscribe: https://heelsinthehierarchy.podbean.com/ ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy Links mentioned in this episode: Government & Policy The Renewed Women's Health Strategy for England — GOV.UK (April 2026) BBC News — "Health strategy bids to stop women being 'ignored, gaslit and humiliated' in NHS" BBC Radio & Podcasts BBC Radio 4 Today Programme — 15 April 2026 (Search for 15 April episode — available 30 days) BBC Radio 4 Woman's Hour — 15 April 2026 (Available on BBC Sounds) Woman's Hour on Spotify Woman's Hour on Apple Podcasts Key Reports & Research Endometriosis UK — Response to Renewed Women's Health Strategy (April 2026) Endometriosis UK — "Years of being dismissed, ignored and belittled" (February 2026) RCOG — "A Work in Progress": Evaluating the Women's Health Strategy (2025) RCOG Full PDF Report RCOG — Response to Renewed Strategy (April 2026) RCOG — Almost Three-Quarters of a Million Women Waiting (January 2026) Parliamentary Reports Women and Equalities Committee — "Medical Misogyny is Leaving Women in Unnecessary Pain" (December 2024) Full Report PDF Women and Equalities Committee — Menstrual Health of Girls and Young Women (March 2026) House of Commons Library — Access to Endometriosis Services Hansard — Westminster Hall Debate: Women's Health Strategy, Endometriosis and Fibroids (March 2026) Further Reading The Independent — "Women waiting too long for NHS care because of medical misogyny" (April 2026) Digital Health — "£1.5m FemTech Fund Launched Under Women's Health Strategy" (April 2026) Women's Health Strategy as Part of the NHS Long Term Plan #HeelsInTheHierarchy #WomensHealthStrategy #MedicalMisogyny #Endometriosis #NHSWomensHealth #DismissedDelayedDeservingBetter #WomenInLeadership #WorkplaceAdjustments #PodcastForWomen #EndoAwareness

One in ten women lives with endometriosis. Most will wait years for a diagnosis. Many will wait in silence. In this episode, recorded for Endometriosis Awareness Month, SJ and Pegsy explore one of the most underdiagnosed and misunderstood conditions affecting women today — from the alarming delays in diagnosis and the physical and emotional toll, to the lesser-known reality that endometriosis can occur far beyond the pelvis. With personal stories, clear explanations of the different types of endometriosis, and a direct challenge to employers and healthcare systems alike, this is an episode that informs, validates, and calls for real change. In this episode: Why diagnosis takes so long — and what that delay costs women The physical and emotional reality of living with endometriosis How endo can present beyond the pelvis — what many people don't know What employers can do to offer meaningful, flexible support Personal stories and community voices Know someone who's been dismissed, delayed, or left waiting? Share this episode. ☕ Support us on Buy Me a Coffee 🎧 Listen & subscribe: https://heelsinthehierarchy.podbean.com/ ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy Links mentioned in this episode: Sanju Pal on LinkedIn — Living with Endometriosis, BBC Asian Network Janet Lindsay, CEO of Wellbeing of Women — Government Equality Action Plans (LinkedIn) #HeelsInTheHierarchy #Endometriosis #EndoAwareness #EndometriosisAwarenessMonth #1in10 #WomensHealth #MedicalMisogyny #InvisibleIllness #PodcastForWomen #WorkplaceSupport

What if the thing that made school so hard is exactly what makes you an exceptional leader? In this episode Pegsy turns the mic on SJ for a candid, personal conversation about SJ's dyslexia diagnosis — how it reshaped her sense of identity, changed the way she learns, and ultimately transformed her approach to leadership. From the challenges of an education system not designed for her, to the creativity, intuition and empathy that dyslexia brings, this is an honest and empowering conversation about embracing difference rather than hiding it. In this episode: SJ's dyslexia diagnosis and what it meant for her identity Navigating education and the workplace as a dyslexic woman Practical adaptations that actually make a difference The strengths dyslexia brings — and why organisations need them Why diverse thinking isn't just a nice-to-have If you've ever felt that the way your brain works is a problem to be solved — this episode is for you. ☕ Support us on Buy Me a Coffee 🎧 Listen & subscribe: https://heelsinthehierarchy.podbean.com/ ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy Links mentioned in this episode: Rebel Ideas by Matthew Syed #HeelsInTheHierarchy #Dyslexia #Neurodiversity #DyslexiaAwareness #WomenInLeadership #LeadershipAndLearning #EmbraceYourDifference #PodcastForWomen #DiverseThinking #Resilience

Imagine spending decades adapting, compensating, and wondering why everything feels harder than it should — and then finding out there was a reason all along. In this episode SJ and Pegsy explore Pegsy's personal experience of late ADHD diagnosis — the years of masking before she knew that's what she was doing, the ways it shaped how she worked and who she became, and the profound emotional impact of finally having an answer. Honest, warm, and genuinely illuminating — this is essential listening for anyone who suspects they might be neurodivergent, anyone supporting a colleague who is, or anyone who has ever felt like they were quietly running a different operating system to everyone else. In this episode: What masking is — and the toll it takes over a lifetime The everyday quirks and genuine strengths of ADHD Workplace challenges and what actually helps Practical steps for seeking a late diagnosis How to support yourself — and help your colleagues understand you — after diagnosis Think this might resonate with someone you know? Share it. ☕ Support us on Buy Me a Coffee 🎧 Listen & subscribe: https://heelsinthehierarchy.podbean.com/ ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy Links mentioned in this episode: ADHD and Job Loss — HuffPost UK #HeelsInTheHierarchy #ADHD #LateDiagnosis #ADHDWomen #Neurodiversity #Masking #NeurodivergentWomen #WorkplaceNeurodiversity #PodcastForWomen #ADHDAwareness

The conversations that stayed with us. The moments we didn't plan for. The community that kept showing up. In this Series 3 reflection episode, SJ and Pegsy look back at a season that covered men's mental health, continuing professional development, encouraging young girls to lead, a powerful personal interview with an educator, listener Q&A, and the WOOP method for making New Year intentions actually stick. They share what surprised them, what moved them, personal updates from behind the scenes, and an open invitation to keep the conversation going — because the community built around this podcast is the whole point. In this episode: Key takeaways from Series 3's most resonant conversations The TEDx talk on encouraging girls into leadership — and why it matters The WOOP method — and why it works better than a resolution Behind-the-scenes reflections and personal updates from SJ and Pegsy What's coming next — and how you can be part of it Enjoyed Series 3? The best thing you can do is share it with someone who needs it. ☕ Support us on Buy Me a Coffee 🎧 Listen & subscribe: https://heelsinthehierarchy.podbean.com/ ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy Links mentioned in this episode: TEDx Event — Girls in Leadership #HeelsInTheHierarchy #Series3 #WomenInLeadership #ADHD #MensMentalHealth #GirlsInLeadership #WOOPMethod #PodcastForWomen #AuthenticLeadership #SeasonReview  

It's February. Your resolutions are already on life support. You're not the problem — the approach is. In this episode SJ and Pegsy revisit the New Year's resolution — all 4,000 years of it — and ask why something so well-intentioned fails so reliably. With a mix of history, psychology, and refreshingly practical advice, they explore what actually works when it comes to setting goals that last beyond January. From micro-goals to the WOOP method, accountability strategies to self-compassion, this episode reframes goal-setting as something that should energise you rather than shame you. There's also genuinely useful guidance for managers on building psychological safety and clearer team strategy — because sustainable goals matter at work too. In this episode: The 4,000-year history of resolutions — and why we keep making them The psychology of fresh starts and why timing matters Micro-goals and the WOOP method — practical tools that genuinely work Self-compassion as a performance strategy, not an excuse How managers can use goal-setting to build wellbeing and team clarity Still clinging to a January resolution? Or already quietly abandoned it? Either way — this one's for you. ☕ Support us on Buy Me a Coffee 🎧 Listen & subscribe: https://heelsinthehierarchy.podbean.com/ ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy #HeelsInTheHierarchy #NewYearsResolutions #GoalSetting #WOOPMethod #MicroGoals #SelfCompassion #WorkplaceWellbeing #WomenInLeadership #PodcastForWomen #GrowthMindset

⚠️ Please note: due to technical difficulties, the sound quality of this episode is below our usual standard. The conversation is absolutely worth it — we just wanted you to know in advance. The stories women carry to work with them every day. It's time we talked about them. In this episode SJ and Pegsy share real listener stories gathered via social media — candid accounts from working women across the beauty industry, manufacturing, and the public sector. What emerges is a picture of unconscious bias, undervalued skill, subtle misogyny, and the invisible weight of emotional labour and multitasking that so many women carry without acknowledgement. But this episode doesn't stop at the problem. SJ and Pegsy offer practical, grounded takeaways — on calling out bias with compassion, recognising and praising positive allies, and what it means to show up as a brave, visible leader even when the culture around you hasn't caught up yet. In this episode: Real listener stories from across industries — unfiltered and powerful Unconscious bias and the subtle misogyny that's easy to miss The mental load and emotional labour women carry at work How to challenge bias constructively rather than confrontationally Why visibility and bravery in leadership matter more than ever Have a story of your own? Share this episode and keep the conversation going. ☕ Support us on Buy Me a Coffee 🎧 Listen & subscribe: https://heelsinthehierarchy.podbean.com/ ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy #HeelsInTheHierarchy #UnconsciousBias #EmotionalLabour #WomenAtWork #MentalLoad #SubtleMisogyny #WomenInLeadership #PodcastForWomen #BraveLeadership #WorkplaceEquality  

Hosts SJ and Pegsy talk with Audrey, an Assistant Associate Head Teacher who returned to education later in life and worked her way into school leadership. They discuss career change, self-doubt, mentorship, and the gender gap in senior roles. The episode also tackles practical classroom challenges—social media, student wellbeing, and cultural inclusion—and leaves listeners with clear takeaways: go for opportunities, support other women, and keep questioning the norms that hold people back. Subscribe to our channel!  https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierachy #heelsinthehierarchy #authenticleadership #womeninleadership https://buymeacoffee.com/heels_in_the_hierarchy

In this episode of Heels in the Hierarchy we discuss Gaelle Deschamps' TED Talk about how girls lose interest in leadership during adolescence and why leadership training must start early. We unpack the LEAD HER approach—lead by example, encourage leadership skills, ask probing questions, and define leadership inclusively—and share practical tips parents, mentors and teachers can use every day. Highlights include the impact of alpha-loaded leadership definitions, using conflict as teachable moments, praising progress intentionally, and making leadership visible and relatable to girls of all ages. https://www.ted.com/tedx/events/59179 Gaëlle Deschamps - Entrepreneur, Leadership Trainer, Executive Coach Gaëlle believes every woman has the potential to lead. She is a fierce advocate of Women Empowerment. Gaëlle studied Executive leadership with Harvard and Strategy with the London Business School. She brings to this TED talk, 23 years of Corporate experience at L’Oréal, SABMiller and the Coca-Cola company, holding senior roles in International Marketing and Learning & Development. Gaëlle was on the Global Leadership Faculty at the Coca-Cola University training 86,000 employees. Founder of G Force, a training company with the mission to help women step up as authentic and confident leaders. She creates powerful and transformative programmes including the “The Art of Confidence©️”, which is CPD certified. Gaëlle is currently creating a Leadership programme to shape the NextGen of female leaders with secondary schools. In her spare time, she writes children books "It's You & Me Time" with her young daughter, while raising money for children's charities. Subscribe to our channel!  https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierachy #heelsinthehierarchy #authenticleadership #womeninleadership https://buymeacoffee.com/heels_in_the_hierarchy

SJ and Pegsy explore why many women question their competence and whether formal qualifications matter more than hands-on experience in career progression. They discuss cultural conditioning, leadership styles, mentoring and practical steps to assess motivations, advocate for yourself, and empower other women to grow without feeling the need to constantly prove their worth. Subscribe to our channel!  https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierachy #heelsinthehierarchy #authenticleadership #womeninleadership https://buymeacoffee.com/heels_in_the_hierarchy

In this episode SJ and Pegsy explore International Men's Day, unpacking its purpose, the mental health challenges men face, and the impact of positive male role models in sport, media and everyday life. They highlight warning signs to watch for, discuss cultural influences and social media risks, and suggest practical ways women and men can encourage open conversations and stronger support networks. Listeners are invited to download, share and subscribe as the hosts embar on Series 3, with promises of further honest, people-centred conversations about women, work and leadership. Subscribe to our channel!  https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierachy #heelsinthehierarchy #authenticleadership #womeninleadership https://buymeacoffee.com/heels_in_the_hierarchy  

Hosts SJ and Pegsy reflect on Series Two of Heels in the Hierarchy, revisiting key episodes and discussions on self-care, emotional intelligence, feedback, trust and leadership. They highlight personal stories, practical insights and moments of vulnerability that shaped the season. The episode includes a discussion about this series' powerful guest interview with JJ, where topics included domestic abuse, culture and faith.  Later they reflect on other episodes which discuss negative bias, blind spots in leadership, and menopause in the workplace. Listeners are invited to download, share and subscribe as the hosts prepare for Series 3, with promises of further honest, people-centred conversations about women, work and leadership. Subscribe to our channel!  https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierachy #heelsinthehierarchy #authenticleadership #womeninleadership https://buymeacoffee.com/heels_in_the_hierarchy  

Hosts SJ and Pegsy discuss menopause in the workplace, covering what menopause and perimenopause are, common symptoms, and why tracking changes matters. They share statistics, personal stories, legal and business reasons to support employees, and practical reasonable adjustments and tips for managers to create a more inclusive workplace. Subscribe to our channel!  https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierachy

Welcome to the "Heels in the Hierarchy" podcast, where SJ and Pegsy delve into the intricate dynamics of women in leadership roles. In this episode, our hosts delve into the profound impact that leadership perspectives, particularly negative bias, can have on team dynamics and individual performance. Inspired by insights from Simon Sinek, they explore how forming narratives about under-performance can damage confidence and productivity, while reinforcing positive actions can transform work environments. Join us as SJ and Pegsy unravel personal stories and strategies that challenge established narratives, fostering an environment of trust and development. From understanding imposter syndrome to providing constructive feedback, this episode offers valuable insights for leaders aiming to cultivate a supportive and thriving workplace. Tune in to discover how conscious leadership and peer accountability can inspire genuine and sustainable organisational growth. Subscribe to our channel!  https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierachy   Links mentioned in this podcast: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHqdkLko57n/?igsh=MWx6aWlzaTVjdmh0cA%3D%3D https://www.viacharacter.org/        

Welcome to the "Heels in the Hierarchy" podcast where hosts SJ and Pegsy discuss the real-life challenges and triumphs faced by working women. In this episode, we dive into an inspiring conversation with JJ, a psychotherapist working in both NHS and private practice. JJ shares her unique journey of navigating career and personal life, including her experiences of overcoming obstacles, breaking free from cultural expectations, and finding empowerment through faith and community support. TRIGGER WARNING : THIS EPISODE CONTAINS SOME REFERENCES TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND SELF HARM JJ's story is a testament to resilience, highlighting how her faith provided strength and direction during difficult times. From dealing with a challenging marriage to embracing opportunities in her professional life, she discusses the pivotal moments that shaped her path and how she learned to embrace vulnerability and authenticity. Join us for this insightful episode as we explore themes of faith, community, and the importance of supporting one another as women in the pursuit of balancing career advancement with personal well-being. Subscribe to our channel!  https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierachy

In this episode of the "Heels in the Hierarchy" podcast, hosts SJ and Pegsy delve into the intricate dynamics of giving and receiving feedback in the workplace, especially for aspiring women aiming for leadership roles. They explore vulnerability as an essential component of effective feedback and the misconceptions that often accompany it. Drawing from diverse professional experiences, they discuss the distinction between feedback, supervision, and coaching, highlighting the emotional and relational aspects that are frequently overlooked in traditional managerial training. The discussion further sheds light on building trust, understanding power dynamics, and fostering a culture where both managers and employees can thrive. Through personal anecdotes and expert insights, SJ and Pegsy provide practical strategies to enhance professional growth and create a feedback-rich environment. Whether you're a giver or a recipient of feedback, this episode offers valuable perspectives to empower women in their career journey without stepping on toes. Subscribe to our channel!  https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierachy  

In this enlightening episode of the Heels in the Hierarchy podcast, hosts S.J. and Pegsy dive deep into the crucial role of emotional intelligence in today's workplaces. They explore how self-awareness and understanding can transform interactions and enhance team dynamics. Discover how emotional intelligence not only fosters psychological safety but also empowers individuals and teams to excel. Join the conversation as S.J. and Pegsy share their experiences and insights, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that come with cultivating emotional intelligence. Learn how leaders can harness this skill to create environments where everyone feels safe, valued, and able to contribute their best selves. Whether you're navigating career advancement, striving for better work-life balance, or leading a team, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and practical strategies to help you succeed. Step into the world of Heels in the Hierarchy and discover how emotional intelligence can be your competitive edge. Subscribe to our channel!  https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierachy

Welcome to this episode of "Heels in the Hierarchy" where hosts SJ and Pegsy delve into the critical yet often misunderstood concept of self-care. In a lively discussion, they unravel the distinction between self-care and wellbeing, emphasising self-care as an everyday choice and essential leadership competency. Discover how small daily practices can exponentially enhance your personal and professional life, and why setting boundaries isn't just healthy—it's profitable. Through engaging anecdotes and the intriguing "Three Ps of Self-Care," this episode offers actionable insights for women aiming to thrive in their careers without compromising their mental health. Tune in and learn why committing to self-care is the ultimate leadership strategy. Subscribe to our channel!  https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierachy

Thirty-one episodes. Countless conversations. One very steep learning curve. In this Season One finale, SJ and Pegsy get candid about what it actually takes to launch a podcast from scratch — the technical struggles, the unexpected highlights, the moments of self-doubt, and the feedback that kept them going. They reflect on the themes that defined the season — imposter syndrome, leadership authenticity, inspirational women, and the mental health conversations that clearly struck a chord — and offer a genuine, unscripted look at what they've learned about themselves along the way. Plus: a sneak peek at what Season Two has in store. In this episode: Behind the scenes of building Heels in the Hierarchy from the ground up The episodes and moments that meant the most Honest reflections on imposter syndrome, authenticity, and growth What's coming in Season Two — and why it's worth the wait If this podcast has resonated with you this season, this is the episode to share. Subscribe and don't miss Season Two. 🎧 ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy #HeelsInTheHierarchy #SeasonFinale #PodcastForWomen #WomenInLeadership #BehindTheScenes #ImposterSyndrome #AuthenticLeadership #Season2 #WomenSupportingWomen #PodcastLaunch  

Most of us know what workplace stress feels like. Far fewer of us talk about it openly. That needs to change. Recorded to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week, this episode sees SJ and Pegsy tackle one of the most important — and most avoided — conversations in professional life. With surprising statistics, practical strategies, and refreshing honesty, they explore what stress really does to us at work and what leaders can do to make a genuine difference. In this episode: The real relationship between workplace stress and mental health How to recognise stress signals in yourself and your team Practical techniques for breaking cycles of negative thinking Why bringing your whole self to work isn't weakness — it's leadership How to start normalising mental health conversations every single day Whether you're a leader wanting to better support your team, or someone quietly struggling yourself, this episode offers both validation and a way forward. Subscribe and join the conversation. 🎧 ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy Links mentioned in this episode: Mental Health Awareness Week — Mental Health Foundation Rethink Mental Illness — Advice, Information & Support Every Mind Matters — NHS #HeelsInTheHierarchy #MentalHealthAtWork #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek #WorkplaceWellbeing #StressManagement #WomenAtWork #BreakTheStigma #LeadershipAndWellbeing #PodcastForWomen #WorkplaceWellness

Be competent and you're cold. Be warm and you're not taken seriously. Sound familiar? SJ and Pegsy dig into Robin Hauser's acclaimed TED talk on the likeability dilemma — and why women in leadership are still navigating a double standard that men simply don't face. From subtle everyday sexism to the biases women hold about other women, this is a candid, thought-provoking conversation about what authentic leadership really looks like — and why conforming to outdated moulds is no longer an option. In this episode: The likeability trap and why it disproportionately affects women Modern sexism — subtle, persistent, and often unintentional How curiosity and self-awareness can shift the dynamic Personal experiences from SJ and Pegsy on navigating gender bias at work Subscribe and join the conversation. 🎧 ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy Links mentioned in this episode: Robin Hauser's TED Talk — The Likeability Dilemma Robin Hauser | Keynote Speaker & Filmmaker About Robin Hauser: Robin Hauser is an unconscious bias and DEI keynote speaker, TED speaker, and award-winning documentary filmmaker at Finish Line Features. Her work explores equality, the gender gap in tech, financial literacy, and implicit bias. A diplomat for the American Film Showcase, she has presented at The White House, NASA, SXSW, Google, Amazon, and US Embassies worldwide. #HeelsInTheHierarchy #LikeabilityDilemma #WomenInLeadership #GenderBias #AuthenticLeadership #UnconsciousBias #RobinHauser #WomenAtWork #PodcastForWomen #BreakingBarriers  

What happens when the career you planned simply doesn't happen — and something better does instead? In this episode SJ and Pegsy welcome their first ever guest: Emma Anderson, Head of Currency Solutions at Planet. Emma's path was supposed to lead to medicine. It didn't. What followed instead is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and quietly refusing to give up. From navigating academic setbacks to finding her feet in the payments industry, Emma talks candidly about career transitions, self-worth, and the unexpected places empowerment can come from. There's humour, there's honesty, and there's practical wisdom in abundance. In this episode: How Emma pivoted from medical aspirations to a senior role in FinTech The mindset shifts that made the difference Why vulnerability and authenticity are professional strengths, not weaknesses The books and thinking that shaped her approach If you've ever found yourself on an unexpected path and wondered whether it's leading somewhere good — this one's for you. Subscribe and join the conversation. 🎧 ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy Links mentioned in this episode: Professor Steve Peters | Chimp Management Atomic Habits by James Clear #HeelsInTheHierarchy #WomenInLeadership #CareerResilience #KnowYourWorth #CareerTransition #AuthenticLeadership #WomenInFinTech #Reinvention #GuestEpisode #PodcastForWomen

Ever said yes to something exciting — then immediately wondered what on earth you were thinking? SJ and Pegsy did exactly that. In this episode they take you behind the scenes of their first professional photo shoot — from the nervous anticipation beforehand to the laughter, the steep stairs, the makeup chair, and the moment they realised it was actually worth it. Honest, funny, and genuinely relatable — this one's for anyone who's ever had to feel the fear and show up anyway. Subscribe and join the conversation. 🎧 ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy #HeelsInTheHierarchy #PodcastForWomen #FearAndGrowth #OutOfYourComfortZone #WomenInBusiness #BackstagePass #JustDoIt #ConfidenceBuilding #WomenSupportingWomen

Some women don't just break barriers — they rewrite the rules entirely. In this episode, SJ and Pegsy each share three women who have shaped their thinking, influenced their values, and inspired their approach to life and leadership. What unfolds is a fascinating conversation — because the overlaps they discover are as revealing as the women themselves. From suffragette firebrands to Supreme Court legends, from world-leading prime ministers to a pop icon who refuses to be boxed in — these are women who stood firm, spoke up, and changed things. The women discussed in this episode: Emmeline Pankhurst — suffragette leader and political activist Ruth Bader Ginsburg — US Supreme Court Justice and gender equality pioneer Julia Gillard — Australia's first female Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern — New Zealand Prime Minister and global symbol of compassionate leadership Pink — musician, activist, and unapologetic rule-breaker Melanie Klein — pioneering psychoanalyst whose work continues to influence modern thinking Whether these names are familiar or new to you, this episode will leave you with something to think about. Subscribe and join the conversation. 🎧 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy Links mentioned in this episode: Emmeline Pankhurst — Wikipedia Ruth Bader Ginsburg — Wikipedia Julia Gillard — Wikipedia Jacinda Ardern — Wikipedia Pink — Wikipedia Melanie Klein Trust The True Story Behind RBG's Case in 'On the Basis of Sex' — Smithsonian Magazine Julia Gillard's Misogyny Speech — Most Unforgettable Australian TV Moment Jacinda Ardern Resignation Speech Pink — Facebook Video #WomenInLeadership #InspirationalWomen #HeelsInTheHierarchy #RuthBaderGinsburg #JacindaArdern #JuliaGillard #EmmettePankhurst #Pink #MelanieKlein #PodcastForWomen #FemaleLeadership

In this first episode, your hosts introduce themselves, share their professional backgrounds, and lay out exactly why they created this show — and who it's for. Heels in the Hierarchy is a candid, no-nonsense podcast exploring the real experiences of working women today: navigating career advancement, breaking through organisational barriers, balancing ambition with life outside work, and everything in between. Whether you're climbing the ladder, questioning it, or redesigning it entirely, this podcast is your space. In this episode: Who we are and what drives us The inspiration behind Heels in the Hierarchy What you can expect from the series — and why we think it matters If you've ever felt overlooked, underestimated, or just exhausted by having to work twice as hard to be taken half as seriously — you're in the right place. Subscribe now and join a growing community of women navigating work on their own terms. 🎧 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeelsintheHierarchy #WomenInLeadership #CareerWomen #WorkplaceEquality #WomenAtWork #PodcastForWomen #HeelsInTheHierarchy #FemaleLeadership #CareerDevelopment